Forestry Sector Programme

Support to Forest Management Planning with Geographic Information System (four phases 2006-2013).

Development of a method for efficient collection and management of forest inventory data. Development of a software application for preparation of annual operational plans and continuous up-date of the management plan. Facilitate calculation and present key forest planning parameters. Training in field inventory and management planning, silviculture and use of GIS. Preparation of practical silviculture manuals and handbooks and implementation of second national forest inventory (2012-2013). In cooperation with Kosovo Forest Agency, Kosovan Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Rural Development and Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The project is developing a method for forest management planning with the use of Geographic Information Systems (GIS). Main counterpart is the Kosovo Forest Agency, which is responsible for the preparation of forest management plans. Foresters are trained in forest management, inventory and planning, as well as use of digital ortophoto and maps within a GIS to produce thematic maps. GPS and handheld PDA for efficient handling of field data are used.

Included in the project is the production of practical manuals and handbooks for planning and conducting silviculture operations. A second national forest inventory is incorporated, as well.

Kosovo is about 10 800 km2. The population is some 1,8 million. In 2008, Kosovo’s independence was recognized by most Western-European countries, but it is not endorsed by the UN. In 2002 Norwegian Forestry Group and FAO implemented the first nation-wide Kosovo forest inventory. Approximately 460 000 ha (42 %) of the total area is classified as forest. Some 32 % of this area is small privately owned properties.

Activities:

• Development of a method for efficient collection and management of forest inventory data
• Development of a software application for preparation of annual operational plans and continuous up-date of the management plan
• Facilitate calculation and present key forest planning parameters
• Training in field inventory and management planning, silviculture and use of GIS
• Preparation of practical silviculture manuals and handbooks
• Implementation of second national forest inventory (2012-2013)

---

Documents:

• Newsletter 1-2011
• Kosovo National Forest Inventory 2012 report
• Kosovo National Forest Inventory 2012 abstract